The Training

The foundation – or capstone – of any North Carolina camp is the climb up Mt. Mitchell. A moderate but steady grade, it focuses riders on climbing (and descending) skills – but without feeling defeated. One capstone ascent per camp, or challenging daily repeats, it is not to be missed.

The Linville Gorge is one of the best kept training secrets of the East Coast. It provides the open-minded athlete with some very difficult and off-road terrain that breaks any training monotony. There are at least two ~half marathon run courses in the Gorge – one with views for days and one with a river* crossing.

Lake James is one of the cleanest lakes in the state of North Carolina. With limited boat traffic, public restrooms available, and the famous Fonta Flora trailhead now open, this is an ideal half day training experience.

Recommended access is at the Linville River Boat Ramp. It is at the “top of the lake” where the fresh water of the Linville River feeds the lake.

Beach accessible and varying water depth areas, it provides a safe and inspiring venue to sharpen both your OWS skills – and your confidence.

If you prefer the blue box for some on-deck coaching, there are two YMCA’s nearby that offer windows for groups.

Voted one of the “30 Most Gorgeous Roads” in America by Bicycling Magazine,  the Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469.1 roller coaster for cyclists of all abilities. Despite its beauty, it is also one of the most car-free and less traveled roads as well – especially Monday through Friday.

First Bourn creators have gone end-to-end more than 20 times, fully unsupported, and can attest to the solitude of the road and the inspiration that surrounds you.

The Blue Ridge region and areas surrounding the training farms offer a variety of run experiences. Early morning pavement for speed or fartlek, to packed gravel on National Forest roads of varying topo, to even technical single-track trail runs, there is a choice for every run session needed.

If you prefer the blue box for some on-deck coaching, there is a YMCA nearby that offer windows for groups.

The foundation – or capstone – of any North Carolina camp is the climb up Mt. Mitchell. A moderate but steady grade, it focuses riders on climbing (and descending) skills – but without feeling defeated. One capstone ascent per camp, or challenging daily repeats, it is not to be missed.

There are a variety of ways to access OWS areas at Philpott. Depending on your camp schedule, there are parts of the lake that never see boat traffic and are accessible by foot and SUPs or Inflatables.

Fairy Stone State Park also offers public bathrooms and a network of trails.

Rocky Knob Recreation Area is a 4,500 acres recreation area along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which spans from mile markers 167–174. The park is home to 15 miles of hiking trails.